#1) Muttiah Muralitharan- 534 Wickets
With an illustrious career spanning over 18 years, Muttiah Muralitharan, the spin maestro from Sri Lanka, remains the leading wicket-taker in ODI history with a staggering 534 wickets. His unorthodox bowling action and an array of spin variations, including the elusive “doosra,” posed a formidable challenge to batsmen across the globe.
Muralitharan’s career-best figures of 7 for 30 against India in Sharjah in 2000 showcased his match-winning abilities. With a bowling strike rate of approximately 35.2 and an incredible bowling average of around 23.1, he often led Sri Lanka to victory with his magical performances. His mastery over the art of spin bowling and his ability to dominate batsmen in all conditions solidify his status as one of the greatest bowlers and No. 1 in the list of highest Wicket-takers in ODI History.
Highest Wicket-takers in One Day International (ODI) Cricket:
| Bowler | Wickets |
| Muttiah Muralitharan | 534 Wickets |
| Wasim Akram | 502 Wickets |
| Waqar Younis | 416 Wickets |
| Chaminda Vaas | 400 Wickets |
| Shahid Afridi | 395 Wickets |
